“If you are irritated by every rub, how will your mirror be polished?”
― Rumi

Someone once told me that the universe has a way of giving us the same tests over and over until we pass. When I heard that, I thought that was quite mean of the universe to do so. After all, I had already put so much time and effort to get past that one situation, then why on earth would I want to wind back up there again? But, inevitably, I relived my past in various ways and, each time, I would be more and more resentful. Rather than change my behavior, I just got more angry, and bitter. I felt victimized. Now that I am in recovery, when I am up against a familiar situation, I try to inventory my behavior and see if I am responding to the situation in a way that allows me to heal emotionally and behave in a way in which I won't carry resentment with me once I get past it. In this way, I am able to see each situation – good and bad – as an opportunity to grow and learn. It's not always easy, but I no longer feel like a victim. With the love and support of the my Higher Power and fellowship, I can move forward and try to new behaviors. Rather than being angry and irritated, I can laugh and forgive myself when it doesn't work or be grateful when it does. I have found peace in this way.

A meditation for February 22, 2013.

How Far We've Come – Matchbox 20